The Cool Fireman Podcast

By Matt, Brian, Adam, Doug, and FreddyComedy Business Education Careers

The Cool Fireman Podcast episodes

February 14, 2025 #94 Did You Decon? A Firefighter’s Guide to Staying Clean with Tonya Herbert
In this episode ofThe Cool Fireman Podcast, we sit down withTonya Herbert fromThin Red Line Decon to talk about something every firefighter should be thinking about—decontamination. 🚿🔥
We dive into thedangers of toxic exposure,how to get PFAS out of your gear, and thereal impact of PAHs after a fire. Tonya even breaks down whichfireground position had the highest contamination readings (and the answer might surprise you 👀). Plus, she tells us all about her“Did You Decon?” sticker—a simple reminder that could save lives.
If you're serious aboutprotecting yourself, your crew, and your family from the long-term risks of the job, this is an episode youcan’t afford to miss.

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Email: [email protected]
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Instagram: @thecoolfireman
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🎧Listen now on all podcast platforms!
💬Tag a firefighter who needs to hear this!
#TheCoolFiremanPodcast #Episode94 #ThinRedLineDecon #FirefighterHealth #DidYouDecon #CancerPrevention #CleanGearCleanFirefighters #DeconMatters 🚒💨
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1 hr 19 min
February 07, 2025 #93 This is My Seat
There’sno assigned seating in the firehouse… but let’s be real, we all know there is. 🚒👀
In this episode,Matt, Brian, Freddy, Unkie, and Doug dive into the unspoken rules of the firehouse, from thekitchen table hierarchy torecliner battles and even thesleeping arrangements that can make or break your shift. We break down:
🔥 The deep-rootedrespect andtradition behind where you sit.
🔥 Therookie vs. senior firefighter pecking order.
🔥 Theunwritten rules of shift change, from making your bed to not beingthat guy who sleeps past 6:45.
🔥 Assigned roles on the fire engine—whyanticipation is key to working smarter and faster.
🔥 Super Bowl predictions (because we had to).
We even get intofireground assignments,hydrant vs. tank water debates, and why you don’t mess with someone else’s bed at the station. Oh, and Doug wasdefinitely here for this episode.

Visit
Email: [email protected]
TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more
Instagram: @thecoolfireman
Tiktok: @thecoolfireman
YouTube: @thecoolfireman

🎧 Listen now, and let us know—what’s your firehouse seating situation? 🏆💺
#TheCoolFiremanPodcast #FirehouseLife #NoAssignedSeatsButReallyThereAre #KitchenTablePolitics #RespectTheSeat
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41 min
January 31, 2025#92 Handy Hooked on Innovation: Firefighting Smarts with Nathan Helten
🎙️ The Cool Fireman Podcast: Featuring Lieutenant Nathan Helten of Handy Hook
🔥 In this episode, the crew welcomes Lieutenant Nathan Helten, creator of the Handy Hook, to talk about his incredible journey in the fire service and how he designed an innovative tool to make firefighters' lives easier. From rural beginnings in Kansas to founding a game-changing product, Nathan shares his passion for problem-solving and his commitment to improving the fire service.
Highlights:
🚒 Baptized by Fire: Nathan recalls his first fire and the awe of standing in a burning room while breathing normally.

🛠️ The Handy Hook Story: Learn how Nathan saw the need for a better solution to keep gloves accessible and ready for action, leading to the invention of the Handy Hook.

🏡 Country Life: Nathan shares his love for living off the grid, building his dream home, and being able to "take a leak off the front porch without worrying about neighbors."

💪 Innovation Process: From 3D printing over 200 prototypes to collaborating with local businesses for manufacturing, Nathan breaks down the journey of creating and perfecting the Handy Hook.

🏞️ Rural Firefighting Challenges: Nathan discusses his career progression from a volunteer firefighter in Eureka, Kansas, to becoming a lieutenant and rescue expert in Sedgwick County.

🔥 Firefighter Culture: The crew laughs about mustaches, fireground traditions, and adapting to new tools in a field where habits run deep.
Quick Links:
Handy Hook Website: myhandyhook.com

Follow Handy Hook:
Instagram: @myhandyhooks

TikTok: @Thehandyhook

Facebook: Handy Hook

YouTube: Handy Hook Channel

Get Your Handy Hook: Order online and elevate your turnout game.
Moment of Silence: The team takes a moment to honor fallen first responders.
Sponsors:
🌶️ Unkie’s Seasoning: Bring the heat to your meals with the perfect blend of spices.

📦 The Burn Box: Monthly firefighter-themed gear, including tools, apparel, and collectibles.
Turnout Drill: Nathan answers rapid-fire questions about his favorite holiday, dream superpower, and what it means to live life in the country.
👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Cool Fireman Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts to stay updated on weekly episodes and exclusive clips. Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and highlights from our episodes.
🎧 New episodes drop every Friday!

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45 min
January 24, 2025 #91 Kenny Mitchell – Beyond "Rest Easy"
In this powerful episode, we welcome back Kenny Mitchell from Operation Yellow Tape to dive deep into the challenges of firefighter mental health, the stigma of silence, and how we can build better support systems.
🔥 Highlights from the episode:
Kenny’s candid thoughts on why he’s tired of hearing, “Rest easy, gone too soon.” The importance of accountability and recognizing your own behaviors before it’s too late. Why every firefighter needs a strong inner circle and practical steps to tackle the mental load of the job. Strategies for starting peer support systems, even in small departments.
This isn’t just about the job—it’s about staying here for the people who need you the most. 💪
🎙️ Available Friday, January 24th, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you listen.
👉 Follow Kenny Mitchell:
📬 Join the Operation Yellow Tape newsletter: https://www.kennymitchelljr.com/oyt
📸 Instagram: @kennymitchellfire
#MentalHealthMatters #FirefighterSupport #OperationYellowTape #StayStrong #TheCoolFiremanPodcast
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39 min
January 17, 2025 #90 The Salty Paramedic: Memes, Mental Health, and Limp Hoses
This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, we’re joined by the one and only Salty Paramedic – now revealed as Cody! 🎉
🔥 Cody’s hilarious stories, including the time he came up with his best idea… on the toilet. 💡
🔥 The behind-the-scenes scoop on his viral social media journey.
🔥 The real story behind Limp Hoses, his new card game for first responders.
🔥 A heartfelt look at mental health in the fire service and why he’s writing Don’t Lose Yourself, his upcoming mental health guide.
Visit:
Email: [email protected]
TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more
Instagram: @thecoolfireman
Tiktok: @thecoolfireman
YouTube: @thecoolfireman
Where can you find The Salty Paramedic:
TikTok: @TheSaltyParamedic_
LIMP HOSES GAME:
https://www.thegamecrafter.com/games/limp-hoses
DON'T LOSE YOURSELF BOOK:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSSWTHY2/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_7FSAMPFK6XT41A9313SN?linkCode=ml1&tag=codyspauldi-20
We’re talking laughs, life, and the firehouse kitchen table vibes you know and love. This is one you don’t want to miss!
🎧 Catch it now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
📲 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share!
#CoolFiremanPodcast #SaltyParamedic #FirefighterLife #MentalHealthMatters #LimpHoses #PodcastLife
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33 min
January 10, 2025#89 Safety, Situational Awareness, and Staying Ready
The Cool Fireman Podcast is back with Episode 89, and this one’s all about safety, accountability, and keeping your crew out of harm’s way. 🚒🔥
In this episode, Brian, Matt, Freddy, Doug, and Unkie tackle a wide range of topics, including:
Brian’s question: Are we more distracted in the apparatus than ever before? How does technology help—or hinder—our safety on the road?

Freddy’s story: A high-pressure response to a school fire highlights the challenges of understaffing and multitasking for officer-in-charge.

Doug’s mustache wisdom: It’s not just about the ‘stache—Doug shares thoughts on MDT placement, pre-planning, and training rookies on situational awareness.

Unkie’s safety checklist: The importance of securing equipment, closing compartments, and wearing seatbelts to prevent injuries in case of accidents.

Matt’s PSA: The importance of "driving with due regard" and the consequences of reckless driving in an emergency.
🛑 Call to Action:
What is your department doing to prioritize safety in the apparatus? Share your tips, tools, or experiences in the comments. Let’s continue the conversation and learn from each other.
🎙️ As always, special thanks to our sponsors:
Unkie’s Seasoning – Add some spice to your firehouse meals.
http://www.unkiesseasoning.com
The Burn Box – Gear, patches, and collectibles for firefighters.
http://www.theburnbox.com
🔥 Listen now and join us as we break down what it takes to stay safe, effective, and ready for anything in the fire service.

Visit
Email: [email protected]
TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more
Instagram: @thecoolfireman
Tiktok: @thecoolfireman
YouTube: @thecoolfireman

#FirefighterLife #Firefighting #Bravehearts #FirstResponders #FireDepartment #FirefighterFitness #podcast #firefighter #podcasts #podcasting #firefighters #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #firewife #homelife #RescueOps #FireSafety #HeroicFirefighters #Smokejumpers #ParamedicLife #EmergencyResponse #Firehouse #WildlandFirefighter #FireTraining #HazardousMaterials #FirefighterGear #FireTruck #EngineCompany #LadderCompany #FireChief

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31 min
January 03, 2025 #88 New Year, New Word, New Years Resolution!
In this episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, Brian, Matt, Unkie, and Freddy dive into all things New Year! It’s January 3rd, and we’re reflecting on 2025 with one big idea: choosing a single word to guide us through the year. 💡
From accountability to resilience, we’re picking the words that will define our actions, goals, and mindset for the year ahead. Now, we want to hear from YOU!
🔥 Call to Action: Drop a comment with the ONE WORD you’re committing to in 2025! Let’s inspire each other to live with purpose.

- Javan Settles- Ontario FD by way of FDNY and Long Beach FD
- https://secure.givelively.org/donate/ontario-professional-firefighters-foundation/javan-settles?utm_campaign=share_button&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_source=facebook&utm_content=campaign_page#_=_

- LT. Robert Talbott - Chesterfield County Fire and EMS, Virginia
- https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FWWW.CPFFCF.ORG%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR05vasU1UL2_js51p1W3se-KBaKkFNPOpeB_GluKxnD0_MxkCoaklFoXkg_aem_8mKE-rlNpF8QlG7_9TylgQ&h=AT279PYo2q0DtHSbA0SImZlUHMr67dOIYTA6dwAyilcH3k63co4QUo2CsPbGFQ7uobq1GNp4AWZ1-WPB7KC3gwwWKk96W0ye3g8Iksk4rqQqEy-FgnVOPEvtgnWoX3X7Bjmi9N-v3-YvBwLtUHbfnKM&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT2AbggMEXwHUtBmV_oarSAu5arDgp6oAydkqdF3OPWElTSmEB8W9NXH1qicBemiO4RjDlhn4toz76RaR_CpUa1QxBb5yZY-1fQBqWA44ogwlFa6BO75-hPc04QZFawGDJzwWF5DT8fTSV9XVzSgM5F_FKDQ1MuzCq2XC_MrU1TPd8r3ga0kxN3MHPk6q50p

Visit
Email: [email protected]
TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more
Instagram: @thecoolfireman
Tiktok: @thecoolfireman
YouTube: @thecoolfireman

#NewYear2025 #OneWordChallenge #FirefighterGoals #CoolFiremanPodcast 🚒✨
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33 min
December 27, 2024#87 Financial Freedom for Firefighters with Chris Temple from Civic Federal Credit Union
In this special episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, Brian is on location at SAFRE talking about the brand-new Civic Federal Credit Union branch in Wilmington, North Carolina, joined by Chris Temple from Civic. Brian and Chris dive deep into financial freedom tailored for firefighters, covering everything from personal financial stability to supporting small businesses and fostering community through credit union initiatives. Discover how credit unions like Civic are reshaping financial services to benefit firefighters and their families.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Civic’s Unique Approach: How Civic Federal Credit Union supports firefighters with programs like their fire truck debit card that has raised over $4.9 million for the NC State Firefighters Association.

Financial Freedom Basics: Practical steps for firefighters to achieve financial stability, including savings plans, debt reduction, and leveraging credit union benefits.

Small Business Support: Insight into how Civic helps firefighter-owned small businesses thrive with tailored services and discounted rates.

Community Impact: The philanthropic role of credit unions and how they prioritize giving back to local communities and first responders.

Why Credit Unions Matter: The advantages of credit unions over traditional banks, from personalized service to member ownership.
Resources Mentioned:
Civic Federal Credit Union: CivicFCU.org

Find a Credit Union Near You: CreditUnionsNearMe.com

NC State Firefighters Association: ncsfa.com
Action Items:
Check out your local credit union and compare rates for auto loans, home refinancing, or small business support.

Start building a 90-day savings plan to pave your way toward financial freedom.

Explore how your credit union gives back to the community and find ways to get involved.

Visit
Email: [email protected]
TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more
Instagram: @thecoolfireman
Tiktok: @thecoolfireman
YouTube: @thecoolfireman

Subscribe & Stay Connected:
Don’t miss out on future episodes! Hit that subscribe button, turn on notifications, and leave us a five-star review. Visit coolfiremen.com for more firefighter-focused content.
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22 min
December 20, 2024 #86 The Christmas Special 🎄🎙️
In this festive episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt, Brian, Doug, and Freddy bring the holiday cheer straight to your firehouse kitchen table! 🚒✨
From the Nature Boy Doug's iconic "Wooo!" to airing grievances Festivus-style, we dive into everything from holiday traditions in the fire service to those naughty and nice moments of the year. Freddy keeps it real with some classic firehouse pet peeves, while Brian shares the heartwarming story of a chief bringing cookies on Christmas Day. 🍪
Plus, we celebrate the season with shoutouts to our listeners and hear what makes this time of year special in firehouses across the country. And as always, there’s a little chaos, plenty of laughs, and some unforgettable one-liners.
🎅 Call to Action: Share your firehouse or family holiday traditions in the comments or email us at [email protected]!
Grab your cocoa, tune in, and join us as we wrap up the year with holiday cheer and camaraderie. Woooo!
#CoolFiremanPodcast #ChristmasSpecial #NatureBoyDoug #FestivusInTheFirehouse #FirehouseTraditions #HolidayEpisode 🎄🚒
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32 min
December 13, 2024 #85 EMS Deployment—How Departments Do It Differently
In this episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt, Brian, Freddy, and Doug break down how each of their departments handles EMS deployment. From the number of medics required to the unique protocols and strategies, they highlight the differences that make each system work—and the challenges that come with them. 💡
Whether you’re running single medic responses or full EMS teams, this episode offers insights and comparisons that show there’s no one-size-fits-all approach in the fire service.

Visit:
Email: [email protected]
TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more
Instagram: @thecoolfireman
Tiktok: @thecoolfireman
YouTube: @thecoolfireman

#CoolFiremanPodcast #Episode85 #EMSDeployment #FireService #FirefighterLife #EmergencyResponse
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34 min

About The Cool Fireman Podcast

From the publisher's feed

The Cool Fireman Podcast brings you into the world of firefighting with hosts Matt, Doug, Unkie, Brian, and Freddy. We tackle topics that matter most to firefighters—career growth, safety, mental…